Historical context

Richard Hughes, Woodend9 Dec 2013, 2:04 p.m.

I have followed with great interest the matter of MRSC's decision to develop the East Paddock at Hanging Rock, and I think I can bring some historical context to the debate. I was a councillor of the then Shire of Newham and Woodend in 1989 when the council succeeded in buying this land.

I have followed with great interest the matter of MRSC's decision to develop the
East Paddock at Hanging Rock, and I think I can bring some historical context to
the debate. I was a councillor of the then Shire of Newham and Woodend in
1989 when the council succeeded in buying this land, after several years of
negotiation. Attempts to get various government departments and other
sympathetic organisations to contribute to the purchase cost failed, and
ultimately the council had to go it alone, borrowing $275,000 to buy the land
outright. This was a courageous decision by a small council, but all councillors
understood that the Hanging Rock Reserve was under severe pressure because of
its popularity with visitors (then approximately 100,000 per year, now almost
double that). The major reason for the purchase was to reduce this pressure on
the environment of the Rock by giving visitors an additional large, cleared area
in which to enjoy their visit. This was clearly stated at the time, and I recall
that the council was unanimously in favour of the decision to purchase the
land. One year after the land purchase, and again after dogged persistence by
the council, Hanging Rock was listed on the register of the National Estate. I
believe that the listing justified the purchase of the land, and also amplified
the need to protect the environs of the Rock. Council later embarked on a
management plan for the Rock Reserve, and this was completed in 1992 by the
consultancy firm, Loder and Bayly. Extensive consultations were held with
community organisations, government departments, bodies such as the SEC and the
CFA, and any individuals interested in contributing their thoughts. The result
was a comprehensive management plan which, amongst other things, applauded the purchase of
the East Paddock as a means of giving greater protection to the Rock. Hanging
Rock is an extraordinary geological feature which has world-wide recognition.
Current councillors, and officers, need to acknowledge this, and also to pay
heed to the passion and respect which locals hold for the Rock. They should also
carefully consider the deliberations and actions of their predecessor
councillors, and at the very least, engage in meaningful consultation with their
community.